What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot in London
One of the most common questions families ask before their session. Here is everything you need to know about choosing outfits that will look beautiful in your portraits. What to wear is the question I get asked most often in the days leading up to a family session. It feels like a lot of pressure, but it really does not need to be. With a few simple guidelines, your outfits can look effortless and beautiful without anyone needing to overthink it. Think coordination, not matching The most timeless family portraits are ones where everyone looks connected without looking identical. Instead of buying matching outfits, choose a colour palette of two or three tones that work together and let each person express their own personality within that range. Soft neutrals, warm creams, dusty blues, sage greens, and deep earthy tones all photograph beautifully and stand the test of time. Avoid very bright, saturated colours, as they can draw attention away from your faces, which are always the real subject. What to avoid Busy patterns, logos, or large text. Distracting and date quickly. Matching outfits all in the same colour. Can look flat and slightly corporate. All-white or very pale outfits for young children, especially around food or grass Clothes nobody feels comfortable in. If someone is pulling at their collar all session, it shows. Practical tips for children Children need to be comfortable above everything else. If they are stiff or uncomfortable in what they are wearing, it will affect the whole session. Choose clothes they have worn before where possible, and avoid anything scratchy or restrictive. For babies and toddlers, bringing a spare outfit is always a good idea. Spills happen, and having a backup means the session carries on without any stress. The most important thing is that everyone feels like themselves. When people are comfortable, it shows in the photos. Layering works beautifully Layers add visual interest and give you options during the session. A soft knit over a shirt, or a light jacket worn open, adds depth to portraits without feeling overdressed. It also means you can mix things up between different parts of the shoot. A note on shoes Shoes appear in more shots than you might expect. Keep them simple and clean. Scuffed trainers and brightly coloured wellies can be charming for the right family, but classic footwear tends to photograph most consistently well. Still not sure? Just ask. If you are genuinely unsure about any part of your outfits, send me a message before your session. I am happy to give honest, practical advice and I do it all the time. There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to making your session feel right.